Digital X-Rays

Digital X-Rays in Long Beach

Digital radiography (digital X-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental X-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of X-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems more easily. Digital X-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental X-rays.

Dental X-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without X-rays, problem areas can go undetected.

Dental X-rays may reveal:

Abscesses or cysts.

Bone loss.

Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.

Decay between the teeth.

Developmental abnormalities.

Poor tooth and root positions.

Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.

Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!

Are dental X-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. Digital X-rays produce a significantly lower level of radiation compared to traditional dental x-rays. Not only are digital X-rays better for the health and safety of the patient, they are faster and more comfortable to take, which reduces your time in the dental office. Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the X-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment.

Even though digital X-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered very safe, dentists still take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation. These precautions include only taking those X-rays that are necessary, and using lead apron shields to protect the body.

How often should dental X-rays be taken?

The need for dental X-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary X-rays based upon the review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.

A full mouth series of dental X-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing X-rays (X-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.

Testimonials

“Dr. Cho is the best dentist I have ever had. After years of bad dentists, and even some that I thought were very good, only this man stands above the rest. He holds a unique philosophy of preventative dentistry and wants his clients to understand the full benefits of the methods involved. You will also see proof that he invests in superior technological advancements, such as electronic x-rays. I had never heard of such a thing, but it allows the patient to see high-resolution results of an x-ray in mere seconds on the LCD screen. He may also take pictures of all your teeth using a special oral digital camera. Now I call that attention to detail! He also has an amazingly well-balanced personality with interests in varying fields. You might even learn something new just by chatting with him in between your cleanings."

"I must recommend Dr. Cho to anyone in the Orange County area looking for a great dentist. I hope your visits are as enjoyable as mine. Good luck!”

-- K. Hermans

“I hate going to the dentist… more than anything in the world. I have been needing to go to the dentist for a long time, and finally decided to gather up courage and go. As soon as I called to make an appointment I had a great feeling. The woman on the phone was extremely nice and helpful. I went to my appointment (palms sweating) and was warmly welcomed by that same woman whose voice I remembered from my previous call. I met Dr. Cho and I have never felt so comfortable in a dentist chair. He was very caring and understood my immense fear of the dentist and did a wonderful job of making me feel at home. He definitely knows what he is doing. He explained everything and was very patient with all of my questions. He is personable, smart, and kind, and most of all..GENTLE! I look forward to my future appointments with him! The dental hygienist only works 2 days a week but I had the pleasure of being her patient. The entire staff is amazing!!! There aren’t enough nice words for the people at this office! Needless to say..I am no longer scared to go to the dentist! Thank you guys!”